The Stars Of Tomorrow

I talk about my experience working with some extremely talented young people on "One Song Glory".

I sit here mere hours after being part of a very special evening of theatre. While this may go better in the "musical theatre" section of suite101.com, I decided to write this because of what it gave me a glimpse into the future of theatre.

I have had extensive conversations with actors, directors, and theatre managers about the fact that the audiences in Toronto are aging, and that the youth of today aren't truly interested in theatre, for any number of reasons. Film, TV, other media sources and the internet consume the lives of young people today. They don't want to go to the theatre. Many of them feel that theatre is not a medium that they can relate to. Fair enough. Many of them have never been exposed to it, and so they are entitled to that opinion. How can you know you like something if you don't try it?

"One Song Glory" was an idea that came about as part of Acting Up Stage Company's mandate to connect with and expose young people to the genre of musical theatre. Tonight on the stage of the Diesel Playhouse (formerly the home of Second City Toronto) was gathered some of the most talented and enthusiastic young people, doing what they do best - singing. Singing songs that they relate to and understand. Some of the shows represented were: Footloose, A New Brain, Parade, Brooklyn, Seussical, RENT, Tick...Tick...Boom, The Wild Party and so many more.

In front of a sold out house of almost 400 people, young and old, these youth performed their hearts out, and I was so proud to be a part of it. To see the excitement in their eyes...to see the time they have committed to rehearsing and learning their songs was incredible.

I was not only proud of their accomplishments, but to see these kids who are so passionate about musical theatre was such a thrill for me.

I think the future of theatre is looking up...although we need to do more to get more young people into the theatre, and get them more involved - allow them the opportunity to develop that passion, and it will pay off in the long run for all of us.